Heavy Equipment Operator

Do you want a job running large machines like cranes, bobcats and excavators? Heavy Equipment Operator training is for those hands-on people who think big and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

Vancouver Island University's heavy equipment operator school provides the foundation for success in this industry. This program provides intensive, hands-on, real-life training in the operation of heavy equipment, including crane operator training, forklift operator certification, and dump truck operator, backhoe, dozer and excavator training. The heavy machine operator training also covers routine maintenance of machinery, and the practical field operations of excavating, land clearing, grading and road building.

The Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program

The Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate Program includes the Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation (4 weeks), the Heavy Equipment Operator Technician (5 weeks), and Machine Operator Training (1-8 weeks, machine dependent) for a total of 10 to 17 weeks of instruction. Students will be granted a Foundation and Technician Certificate as well as a machine(s) specialty certificate(s). Graduates will gain knowledge and skills in both a classroom and hands-on setting that will help them to be successful as they continue within the industry. They will also participate in a four week work experience segment gaining meaningful industry experience.

Career Opportunities

Students who are successful in completion of the Foundation, Technician, and Specialized Machine Operator Training will be well positioned to gain employment as a Backhoe, Dozer, Excavator, Front End Loader, Articulated Rock Truck, Grader, Skid Steer or Dump Truck & Pup Operator. This program has been identified as a preferred pre-requisite by Industry Employers for entry into the Road Builder & Heavy Construction Trade.

* Students are required to provide personal attire to meet WCB regulations: steel-toed boots, hardhat, hearing protection, safety vest, and gloves. Students are also responsible for transportation costs to worksites.

The Health and Dental Plan fee is in effect only for full-time students at the Nanaimo Campus.